Find out about all facets of flax

The cultural, artistic and physical properties of harakeke, or flax, will be explored at a free public workshop at Hollard Gardens, Kaponga, on Sunday (17 February).

Led by weaver and artist Viv Hohaia, and Sue Rine, the workshop will cover:

The Maori view of harakeke.

The protocols around harakeke, why they exist and how they relate to whanauprinciples and values.

The National Flax Collection and the role played by Hollard Gardens.

How to cut, maintain and care for harakeke, and keep it healthy.

Weaving and other uses of harakeke.

The workshop will include a walk around the flax garden at Hollard Gardens, which is north of Kaponga at 1686 Upper Manaia Road.

Sunday’s event runs from 2pm to 4pm. It is part of a year-round programme of workshops and other events at Hollard Gardens, Pukeiti and Tupare, the three heritage properties owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council on behalf of the people of the region. For more information, see www.hollardgardens.info, www.pukeiti.org.nz and www.tupare.info. Social media users can also follow the Regional Gardens on Facebook (TaranakiRegionalGardens)and Twitter (@TaranakiRG).